Best Grants for 501(c)(3)

The Chain of Checks Grant, established in 1986 by Barry Lee, has raised nearly $2 million to support various nonprofits in the community. Administered by the Community Foundation of the Northern Shenandoah Valley, it primarily funds organizations with 501(c)(3) status serving Winchester and surrounding counties. Grants typically range from $3,000 to $5,000, focusing on projects addressing physical and mental health, as well as basic human needs like food and shelter, while ensuring no discrimination occurs.

The Trout and Salmon Foundation Grant offers matching funds up to $5,000 to support projects aimed at restoring and enhancing trout and salmon habitats in North America. Established in 1969, the foundation prioritizes partnerships with local watershed organizations focused on habitat improvement. Grants are provided for projects that physically restore streams and fisheries, with on-site labor recognized in certain cases. The foundation seeks to diversify funding across various watersheds and regions, ensuring a broad impact in conservation efforts.

This grant opportunity focuses on implementing Gatekeeper Training in Illinois' correctional facilities to address suicide prevention in communities that are disproportionately affected by mental health issues. The initiative aims to enhance public health strategies aligned with the Illinois Suicide Prevention Strategic Plan 2020. By training gatekeepers, the program seeks to mitigate suicide risks and improve outcomes in vulnerable populations, contributing to a comprehensive approach to mental health support.

The Leslie Brown Memorial Grant offers up to $5,000 in financial assistance aimed at promoting research and sharing knowledge about African birds of prey. This grant honors Leslie Brown, a renowned raptor conservation biologist, and aims to support projects that directly involve the primary author in research relevant to African raptors. It also waives page charges for publication in the Journal of Raptor Research, ensuring that awardees can disseminate their findings effectively.

The James River Water Quality Improvement Grant Program, managed by the Virginia Environmental Endowment, aims to enhance water quality through targeted investments. The program focuses on riparian buffer installations, agricultural pollution reduction, living shoreline construction, and stream restoration. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and local governments, with funding prioritized for implementation costs. Proposals must align with established priorities to demonstrate effectiveness in improving the James River's water quality.

The Boren Scholarship offers funding for U.S. undergraduate students to study critical languages abroad, enhancing their linguistic and cultural competencies. The program prioritizes students committed to public service in national security roles and supports immersive experiences in diverse regions, excluding Western Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Awards vary based on the duration of study, with amounts reaching up to $25,000 for longer programs. This initiative fosters a deeper understanding of global cultures, vital for U.S. interests.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture is inviting proposals for the Adaptive IPM for Invasive Agricultural Pests grant program. This initiative aims to develop integrated pest management strategies that can be implemented swiftly when new invasive pests threaten California's agriculture. With $500,000 available for one award, the program seeks to enhance existing IPM strategies and explore new control measures to combat pesticide resistance and ensure a sustainable agricultural environment.

The Hill Country Rally Grant aims to support children in need within the Texas Hill Country by redistributing funds to 501(c)3 organizations or directly assisting youth. Through its annual event, the foundation raises awareness and meets essential needs for kids, including education, healthcare, and recreational opportunities. The grant prioritizes support for organizations helping vulnerable children while maintaining a commitment to renewal grants for ongoing projects that show significant progress towards their goals.

NAFC Open Grant/Product Donation Applications

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality healthcare and strives to be a national voice promoting quality healthcare for all. For more information about the NAFC, including how to become a member, please visit https://www.nafcclinics.org.

NAFC Capacity Fund

The NAFC Capacity Fund supports investments that strengthen clinic and pharmacy infrastructure and organizational effectiveness. This funding is designed to help NAFC members build the systems, tools, and capabilities needed to operate more efficiently, improve quality, and expand their ability to serve patients over time.

The Altrusa International Grant, managed by the Madison Community Foundation, supports projects that empower children and youth in education, aid workforce reintegration, and encourage lifelong learning. Established in 1942, the foundation has a mission to foster a generous community through impactful charitable giving. Grants range from $1,000 to $5,000, with an average of $1,200, aimed at making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals in Madison and Dane County.

The Building Better Lives Grant, offered by the Northwest Minnesota Foundation, aims to empower local leaders and communities through innovative, community-led solutions. By prioritizing engagement, collaboration, equity, and sustainability, the grant supports projects that strengthen families, promote health and wellness, cultivate welcoming communities, enhance economic mobility, and build nonprofit capacity. Together, these efforts contribute to a more resilient and thriving region.

The Wirtanen Family Fund supports initiatives aimed at fostering community awareness of global interdependence, promoting social justice, and increasing democratic participation. It prioritizes projects addressing contemporary issues with regional impact, such as health care access and environmental preservation. Eligible organizations include those classified as charitable under IRS codes and serving specific counties in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The fund encourages co-sponsorship and highlights the importance of understanding diverse cultures and social systems.

Local Food Infrastructure Grant Program

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (the “Department” or “IDOA”) is issuing this Notice of Funding Opportunity (“NOFO”) to provide grants through the Local Food and Infrastructure Grant Act [505 ILCS 92] and Administrative Code Title 8: Agriculture and Animals Chapter I: Department of Agriculture Subchapter m: Marketing Programs Part 340 Local Food Infrastructure Grant. The purpose of this program is for the development of local food processing, aggregation and distribution.

The General Assembly finds that the following conditions exist in this State:

• Small fruit, vegetable, and livestock farmers are vital to the health and wealth of Illinois communities, yet Illinois does not currently have infrastructure in place to support local food farmers or to feed Illinois communities.
• An estimated 95% of the food consumed in Illinois is purchased from outside of our borders, resulting in the export of billions of food dollars outside our State rather than the enhancement of our local food economies.
• A shift of just 10% toward local food purchasing by Illinois individuals, families, schools, institutions, and State agencies could generate billions in economic growth for our State.
• For Illinois families, businesses, schools, and institutions to shift their purchasing practices, Illinois must invest in supporting critical local food infrastructure needed to bolster processing, aggregation, and distribution of local food.

The General Assembly determines and declares that there exist conditions in the State that require the Department to issue grants on behalf of the State for the development of local food processing, aggregation, and distribution. (505 ILCS 92/10) Sec. 10 (a) and (b).

All grant funding provided under this Act must be used for purchasing, leasing to own, renting, building, or installing infrastructure related to the processing, storage, aggregation, or distribution of value-added agricultural products.

Opportunity Funding

• $3,600,000.00

Funding Sources

• State

Funding Source Description 

• This grant program is utilizing state funds appropriated by Public Act 104-0003, Section 205 and Section 210. Total amount of funding expected to be awarded through this NOFO is $3,600,000. Awards will range from $1,000 to $250,000.

The Arts in Rural Places Grant, offered by South Arts, aims to enhance access to the arts in rural and isolated communities across nine southern states. Grants of up to $3,000 support public activities featuring Southern artists, requiring a dollar-for-dollar cash match. Eligible organizations must host at least two public events and engage a professional artist, promoting cultural engagement and artistic expression within these communities.

Our Mission and Vision

The Wright Foundation for Sustainability and Innovation exists to foster innovative sustainability initiatives that make a positive impact on our planet. We want to find solutions to the complex challenges facing our world today.

Our vision is to facilitate positive action toward sustainable and innovative solutions in agricultural and environmental sectors that reduce carbon footprints and minimize risk for our communities.

Grant Programs

Wright Foundation for Sustainability and Innovation administers projects directly funded by donors that help reduce carbon footprints through carbon positive practices and emission offsetting. The foundation holds open application periods for projects in the contiguous United States, Puerto Rico and Canada that focus on reducing environmental risk through regenerative agricultural practices, habitat restoration and using natural energy sources to make our communities more sustainable.

Reducing Carbon Footprints

The foundation supports projects that work to reduce carbon footprints through the following initiatives.

Habitat Reclamation

• Restoration of habitats creates spaces for native flora and fauna and microorganisms to survive. Natural landscapes are integral to functioning ecosystems and increasing biodiversity, not to mention creating habitats for pollinator species like bees and butterflies that we so desperately need for agricultural success.

Regenerative Agriculture

• Regenerative agricultural practices have a far-reaching impact on the industry and our lives. We aim to reduce carbon emissions by fostering projects that innovate row crop sustainability and dairy, beef, pork and poultry operations to create practices that are sustainable for years to come.

Renewable Energy

• We care about carbon positive practices that harness renewable resources like solar, wind and biomass for improved efficiencies and overall reduction in use. Organic matter often sourced from agricultural production, garbage and tree pruning can be converted to energy in various ways, recycling it back into the agricultural operation that created it or fueling our communities.

Soil

• Soil sequestering practices have wide-reaching benefits like restoring and building organic matter in the soil and increasing biodiversity. It boosts water infiltration and retention and reduces erosion. Through practices like no till, applying organic matter like manure and biochar, and planting cover crops, we improve soil health as well as take CO2 out of the atmosphere.

Tree Planting

• Planting trees is a simple act that makes a huge impact in our urban, suburban and rural communities. They provide shade, release oxygen and improve air quality, improve soil quality and biodiversity, all of which contributes to offsetting carbon emissions.  

• Water
• We want to find ways to protect and restore the integrity of our water resources. We aim to fund projects focused on practices that create efficiencies and reduce the agricultural production impact on water quality and benefit our communities by conserving one of our most important natural resources. 

John Harsch Regenerative Agriculture Grant

Funding for projects adopting best regenerative agricultural management practices that impact one or several of these areas:

• Improve water quality
• Reduce soil erosion
• Increase soil health index
• Reduce synthetic fertilizer use
• Increase effective manure use as a fertilizer
• Increase biodiversity
• Reduce methane and nitrous oxide emissions

The Craig S. Harrison Conservation Fund Grants support seabird conservation efforts in developing countries bordering the Pacific Ocean. Established by the Pacific Seabird Group, this fund addresses funding gaps for essential conservation projects. Eligible applicants include citizens from these nations, focusing on activities that enhance seabird restoration and expertise. Preference is given to local initiatives, ensuring sustainable conservation practices and community involvement. The fund aims to empower local conservationists and address critical seabird conservation needs.

The Local Arts Support Grant, funded by the New York State Council on the Arts, empowers Brooklyn's artists and arts organizations by providing funding for community engagement projects. Designed for nonprofit organizations and artist-nonprofit partnerships, it supports diverse artistic disciplines and does not require matching funds. In 2025, it distributed $265,000 to 63 projects, enhancing local cultural initiatives through performances, exhibitions, and workshops that foster community involvement and enrich the arts landscape.

Montana State University was founded February 16, 1893, as one of the nation's original land-grant colleges authorized by the landmark Morrill Act of 1862. Since then, MSU has been dedicated to the mission of education, research and outreach, providing access to life-changing higher education that has the potential to transform lives and communities.

College and Departmental Scholarships

Some of the colleges and departments at Montana State University offer scholarships to students. A limited number are available for incoming students. 

Robert E. Yoblonsky Student Leadership Scholarship

Required Qualifications:

• Pursuing a degree from the College of Arts and Architecture
• Participating in the College of Arts and Architecture Student Ambassador program
• Demonstrate financial need
• Sophomore, junior or senior status

Scopes: Architecture, Art, Arts and Architecture, Film and Photography, Music

Wisconsin Sea Grant

Wisconsin Sea Grant is a statewide program of basic and applied research, education, outreach and technology transfer dedicated to the stewardship and sustainable use of the nation’s Great Lakes and ocean resources.

Headquartered at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the institute is housed in the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research’s Aquatic Sciences Center. Wisconsin Sea Grant is part of a national network of 34 university-based programs funded through the National Sea Grant College Program, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce and through matching contributions from participating states and the private sector.

Each year, the program scrutinizes the impact it has on coastal communities, serving people and better understanding the Great Lakes ecosystem. Our 2026 program one sheet provides a summary.

Wisconsin Fellowship in Water-Related Environmental Hazards and Public Health

The University of Wisconsin-Madison Aquatic Sciences Center, home to the University of Wisconsin Water Resources Institute and Wisconsin Sea Grant, in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, seeks applicants for a fellowship focused on water-related environmental hazards and public health in Wisconsin.

This two-year fellowship provides an opportunity for a recent Master of Public Health graduate or doctoral graduate to apply their technical expertise to real-world public health challenges while gaining valuable experience working alongside professionals in state government. The fellow will be employed by UW- Madison and stationed full-time with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services.

The fellowship is designed to support both professional development and community impact. Community- engaged science and public health rely on building relationships, fostering trust, and working collaboratively to support informed decision-making. Through this role, the Fellow will gain experience working at this interface, developing and implementing approaches that support communities while learning how to translate scientific knowledge into meaningful public health action.

The Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Local Assistance and Federal Recreation Grants, managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, aim to enhance outdoor recreation opportunities across the state. These grants support various programs, including local parks development, acquisition of development rights, and urban green spaces. They also encompass federal initiatives such as the Land and Water Conservation Fund and Recreational Trails Program. This funding fosters community engagement and promotes sustainable recreational access.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is inviting proposals for its Wildlife Research Grant program, offering over $1,000,000 to support critical wildlife conservation research. Eligible applicants include universities and non-profit organizations, with a required 25% matching funds. Proposals must address specific research priorities, including Javelina Ecology and Wild Turkey Recruitment. Projects should align with federal aid guidelines, focusing on restoring and managing native wildlife and habitats. Unsolicited proposals outside the specified topics will not be considered.

The Illinois Ornithological Society Grant Program, established in 2004, aims to foster scientific research and education about birds in Illinois. Since its inception, it has awarded 140 grants totaling over $137,000 to students, professionals, and organizations engaged in bird-related projects. Eligible applicants must be IOS members and can propose projects that promote research, education, accessibility, and equity in the avian field, thereby enhancing public awareness of Illinois' birdlife.

The Sea Turtle Grants Program, funded by Florida's Sea Turtle Specialty License Plate sales, supports vital research, conservation, and educational initiatives for Florida's marine turtles. The program allocates 30% of license plate revenue to grant applications, with a maximum of four submissions per organization. Priority is given to projects that enhance the preservation of marine turtles and align with recovery plans and the Marine Turtle Protection Program's goals.

About HAA

Houston Arts Alliance (HAA) is a local arts and culture non-profit agency whose principal work is to implement the City of Houston’s vision, values, and goals for its arts grantmaking and civic art investments. HAA’s work is conducted through contracts with the City of Houston, overseen by the Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs. HAA also executes privately funded programs and projects to meet the needs of the arts community, such as disaster preparation and research on the state of the arts in Houston.

In short, HAA helps artists and nonprofits be bold, productive, and strong.

Support for Artists and Creative Individuals (SACI)

The Support for Artists and Creative Individuals (SACI) grant provides funds of up to $15,000 for specific projects that create and present new works of art or complete work already in progress throughout Houston. 

Applications are accepted from all artistic disciplines and creative practitioners, including but not limited to musicians, visual artists, performing artists, textile artists, digital artists, conservation artists, and creative entrepreneurs such as hairstylists, make-up artists, nail techs, gallerists, writers, photographers, and arts administrators. Creatives are encouraged to demonstrate their creativity in whatever form it takes.

Based on community input requesting greater stability, the SACI grant program is awarded based on cash in hand and not from projected income. This practice helps guarantee grant amounts with greater certainty.

SACI grants are funded by City of Houston via the Hotel Occupancy Tax (HOT), funded by cash-in-hand and available in one annual cycle.

The Division of Boating and Waterways Local Assistance Surrendered and Abandoned Vessel Exchange Grant Program aims to enhance public safety and protect the environment by funding the removal and disposal of abandoned recreational vessels. Managed by California State Parks, this program addresses the threat these vessels pose to navigation and waterways. With a history of successful financial assistance, the program has effectively mitigated the impact of abandoned vessels, ensuring cleaner and safer waterways for the community.

About Legacy Foundation

Legacy Foundation is the community foundation for Lake County, Indiana. We connect people, knowledge, and funding to build an equitable, accessible, and inclusive Lake County, now and for generations to come.

Legacy Foundation is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, and businesses connected by the desire to improve Lake County, Indiana. With a growing portfolio of over 400 funds and approximately $124 million in assets, Legacy Foundation is a trusted source for philanthropic giving in the region.

For over 30 years, Legacy Foundation has been empowering people, providing strategic leadership, and impactful philanthropic support to create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Mission Statement

Transforming Lake County by providing strategic leadership and impactful philanthropic support to ensure equitable opportunity for all communities that we serve.

Vision Statement

Create an equitable Lake County where all people thrive.

Building the Future Vocational Scholarship Application

The Building the Future Vocational Scholarship supports scholarships for Lake County residents to attend a public or private institution to earn a certificate or vocational/trade school degree with the intent to gain local employment.

• Agriculture
• Automotive/Mechanical
• Computer/Technology
• Construction
• Cosmetology/Esthetician/Barbering
• Culinary Arts
• Healthcare (Medical, Dental & Emergency Services)
• IT & Business Services
• Manufacturing/Industrial
• Paralegal/Court Reporter
• Real Estate
• Transportation/Aviation

Legacy Foundation PAYS awards directly to SCHOOLS, NOT students. Payments will be:

• Paid to the school to cover OUTSTANDING tuition costs after all other aid is used (Work One, Pell grant, etc.) AND/OR
• Paid towards costs for required books and/or equipment for the program.